DOCS. 309, 310 MARCH 1917 299 unnecessarily to the unavoidable hardships. I have already written you, of course, how I imagine it. I believe that Albert is mature enough for me to be able to be a good teacher and companion to him for a few years.[9] The little one should be cared for in a suitable climate as soon as you consider it appropriate. But who should take him there? Shouldn’t I come, and go with him to the place and stay there a while so that the boy does not feel so abandoned? I shall do everything you consider proper or desirable and can always arrange it. These responsibilities now have priority over all others. I shall take care that Albert is not spoiled here, just as I also always have kept myself independent of the mentality of others. I have come to know the mutability of all human relationships and have learned how to insulate myself against heat and cold, so the temperature is quite steadily balanced. Especially in these times of general excitability, one never knows what the next day will bring, especially when one’s own judgment and values contrast so terribly with those of the surroundings. Cordial greetings, yours, Einstein. 310. To Heinrich Zangger [Berlin, after 10 March 1917][1] Dear Zangger, The day before yesterday I got a scientific letter from my old friend Fritz Adler.[2] You surely know what the man has perpetrated. I know you never thought particularly highly of him because of his scientific orientation. But as a person, he is an exceptional fellow and extraordinarily selfless, which has gotten him into this stew, as a matter of fact. My compassion for him has grown so strong that I really would like to do something for him. He does not know a soul here, but surely he must have much sympathy in Zurich, the place of his former activities.[3] I beg you now please to arrange a prompt action in my name at the Zurich Physical Society and possibly also at the Zurich Scientif. Society, for having a personal pardon plea submitted to the solely responsible authority. It is unclear whether the associations themselves ought to take the step or a large number of their members; but it seems to me that the associations themselves ought to do it, at least the Physical Society,[4] since it makes more of an impression, especially considering the small number of members in the Phys. Society. Besso and Dällenbach will take over all the time-consuming aspects. However, it is you who must assume the “direction” so that something comes of it.